Defensive Excellence Recognized
The 2026 Hermann Trophy watch list, which narrows to 15 semifinalists by early December, celebrates the nation’s most impactful women’s soccer players. This year, Old Dominion’s back‑to‑back Defensive Player of the Year, Ashlynn Kulha, and midfielder‑turned‑defender Libby Holmes earned spots on the 43‑player roster, highlighting their defensive mastery and offensive contributions.
Kulha, a North Carolina native, capped her senior season with six clean sheets and a +20 goal differential, helping the Monarchs rank second in the Sun Belt for goals allowed. Her performance included a pivotal diving header and a shutout against Maryland that limited the Terrapins to a single shot.
Holmes transferred to ODU after a championship season at ULM, where she earned All‑Sun Belt honors and a place on the United Soccer Coaches All‑Region team. In a standout match against Troy, she recorded a career‑high five points, scoring two goals and adding an assist, and she continues to rank among the conference’s top defensive scorers.
Award Implications and Upcoming Announcement
The Hermann Trophy, decided by Division I head coaches, represents the pinnacle of individual achievement in women’s soccer. With the field of 43 set to be trimmed to 15 semifinalists on December 2, 2025, both Kulha and Holmes stand poised to influence the final shortlist. Their recognition underscores the growing depth of talent in collegiate soccer and reflects the strategic emphasis on defensive excellence within the Sun Belt conference.